“Isn’t it strange how places hold memories?” Patrick Pearse mused as he first set eyes on this very building. Today, we stand before the Pearse Museum. It is a place dedicated to Patrick Pearse and his brother William. Both men were executed for their role in the 1916 Rising.
The Pearse Museum was once St. Enda’s School. Pearse established this Irish-speaking school. Originally, the school began in Ranelagh in 1908. In 1910, it moved to this very location in Rathfarnham.
Imagine Pearse walking these grounds. He sought a place to inspire his students. He found it here at “The Hermitage”. The Hermitage got its start when Edward Hudson built it in 1786. Hudson was a State Dentist. Pearse discovered the house during a historical pilgrimage. He was following in the footsteps of Robert Emmet.
Pearse’s vision was to create an educational experience. It would allow students to reach their full potential. The beautiful setting and Emmet connection inspired him. He believed the park would allow the boys to explore nature.
Inside the Pearse Museum, you can see reconstructions of original rooms. Pearse’s study and the family sitting room are recreated. Also, you will find the school art gallery and museum. One of the dormitories is also there. A gallery showcases William Pearse’s sculptures. You can also visit a nature study room. It features Irish plants and animals.
The building itself dates back to the 18th century. From 1840 to 1857, Richard Moore lived here. He was Attorney General for Ireland and a judge.
After Pearse’s execution, the school faced challenges. Decreasing numbers and financial worries led to its closure in 1935. Later, Pearse’s sister, Margaret Mary Pearse, passed away. In 1968, St. Enda’s and its grounds were given to the state. In 1979, the school house transformed into the Pearse Museum.
Consider the efforts to preserve this history. The Pearse Museum closed for renovations in 2006. It reopened in 2008. It now stands as a testament to the Pearse brothers’ legacy.
Step inside the Pearse Museum. You will see the Entrance Hall. It has a fine ceiling and an old fireplace. A painting by Beatrice Elvery hangs over the mantelpiece. She also painted another large picture called “Ireland”. A portrait of Wolfe Tone is painted on copper.
Explore the Reception Room. It is decorated with old engravings. The room features a magnificent 18th-century fireplace. It is made of Carrara and Siena marble. William Pearse grew up surrounded by art. Today, the room houses an exhibition of his sculptures. His works are distinctly Irish.
Visit the Headmaster’s Study. It contains pictures by famous artists. These include George Russell and Jack B. Yeats. Also, works of Beatrice Elvery and Sean Mac Cathmhaoil are on display.
Imagine the Drawing Room. It is described as a bright room overlooking the garden. It features sculptures and watercolours. One prospectus described it as having a homelike quality.
Think about the School Art Gallery and the School Museum. Pearse believed schools should inspire a love of art. The museum contains zoological, botanical, and geological specimens. Pupils were encouraged to collect items for the museum.
Each dormitory was named after a saint taught by Saint Enda of Aran. The largest dormitory accommodated eighteen pupils. Other dormitories were smaller.
Consider An Halla Mór. It was originally a billiard room. It features a beautiful fireplace that could be used as a stage.
The Chapel is barrel-vaulted. It was one of the improvements made by Pearse.
Outside, Saint Enda’s Park boasts follies and garden buildings. The landscape design reflects the picturesque style. Hudson constructed a hermit’s cave. He also built a dolmen and an ogham stone.
The Pearse Museum stands as a tribute. It honors Patrick and William Pearse. Their ideals live on through this place. Remember their story as you leave today.